Patterns
As a color-loving maximalist, I live for patterns.
Nothing says “I’M HERE” like a gorgeous, head-turning pattern. Even subtle patterns add texture and intrigue to an outfit.
Patterns can set the mood board for an outfit: pull one of the colors from it and repeat in your shoes and accessories and your outfit feels instantly intentional. Layer pattern on pattern and you’re a street style, bold icon.
If you’re into color analysis like I am, you’ve probably noticed that some patterns let YOU take center stage more easily than others.
If you wanna know the patterns and prints that work best for your color season, to naturally show you off, we’ve got tips AND examples.
Tip #1: In your dream pattern, the MAJORITY of the colors would be from your season. But the most impactful color will be the the dominant/background color.
A pattern that features shades from your sister season can be good alternatives too!
Tip #2: Match the CONTRAST of the pattern to the contrast of your features!
HIGH-CONTRAST patterns look best on those with bolder, dramatic features, like Winters, Deep Autumns, Clear Springs, and Warm Springs. You can make out a High Contrast pattern from across the room!
MEDIUM-CONTRAST patterns often use colors of similar depths or families, without bold outlines. These work best on those with some contrast, like Warm Autumns, Light Springs, or Cool Summers.
LOW-CONTRAST prints look great on those with romantic features and opaque skin tone, like Soft Summers, Soft Autumns, and Light Summers. These often work as whole-room wallpaper because they are more subtle and don't overwhelm their surroundings.
At the end of the day, if a pattern sparks joy when you wear it, I say “GO FOR IT!” You can always throw on a lipstick, earrings, or third piece in your colors to maintain your glow.
Please don’t let this guidance keep you from wearing something you love; think of it as a tool for when you feel stumped or don’t know where to start. Check out some patterns in your season below!
Jump to your color season: Spring | Summer | Autumn | Winter.
If you don’t know your colors, get them done with us!
Take a screenshot of your faves first, so you know which color to choose!
*I receive affiliate commission for these links, at no extra cost to you! Thank you to Evereve, Sanctuary, and Boden for sponsoring this blog!
Best Patterns for Springs
Patterns in playful florals, organic motifs, and with bold color pairings perfectly vibe with the bright and cheery colors of Spring!
Best Patterns for Summers
Sublte pinstripes, serene low-contrast prints, and soft romantic florals are phenomenal prints for Summers!
Best Patterns for Autumns
Nature-inspired motifs and prints in earthy colors and neighboring tones complement Autumns perfectly.
Best Patterns for Winters
Geometric patterns, bold outlines, and color blocking in Winter jewel tones are show-stopping on Winters!
XO, Lindsey
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